Government

Welcome to the City of Cape Girardeau

MissionThe City of Girardeau, the regional hub of Southeast Missouri, will
actively provide and promote a safe, innovative climate through city
services that enhances the quality of life for its citizens and our
region.

Form of Government
Under the Council/Manager form of
government, the Mayor and City Council establish policy and law in Cape
Girardeau. The Mayor and City Council appoint the City Manager, and the City Manager appoints all but a few of the employees (Municipal Judge, City Attorney, and City Clerk). The Mayor is elected at large for a
four-year term, and the six City Council Members are elected from wards
for staggered, four-year terms. The Mayor
and City Council members serve part time.

City Manager
The City Manager is the CEO of the city government and handles the day-to-day management of the City organization. When the City
Council makes a decision on an ordinance, law, or policy, the City
Manager is responsible for implementing those policies.

Management Support Staff
The City Manager's Office coordinates the operations of the
City’s service departments and divisions. The City Manager is
responsible for the preparation of a proposed operating budget and its
presentation to the City Council. The Annual Budget as adopted by Council provides funding, staffing, and general guidance to the City's departments for the fiscal year.